I Want Some Cows! (Part Two)

So, I have been reading this book about raising cattle.  It's full of REALLY helpful info, like what dual purpose breeds are the best to get.   I am really looking forward to raising them.  My mom said I can even keep a cow for mating with a bull, and for milk so we can have a calf and milk at the same time! As you can imagine, I am a very happy girl.  So, anyway back to the point of this blog post which is to tell you what I have learned about taking care of these beautiful animals.  I'm learning that even if you have some cattle on a pasture, you will need to provide a pen for them.  A corral will provide shelter from the elements. It is also helpful for when you need to give them vaccinations, treat a sick cow or help a cow calve if she has problem

And that's the view from here! Check back soon for "Part 3" in my "I Want a Cow!" Series.

I Want Some Cows! (Part One)

Ever since I was a little girl I have adored all animals, especially cows.  With their beautiful, brown eyes and soft faces I could never resist them.  Although I grew up in the city, in my heart, I was always a country girl. Seeing animals serenely munching grass in open fields was a sharp contrast to the business and noise of the dirty city. 

What I didn't realize is that every animal on a farm must have a purpose.  Cows on farms are not typically kept as pets.  They are usually kept for breeding, milk or meat.  I also learned that when cows are young they are called heifers.  A heifer is a young cow (a female) typically three to five years of age.  A cow that has had a calf  is commonly called a "first-calf heifer."  A bull is sometimes called a  bullock. However, most refer to such an animal as simply a young bull.  He could be called a bull calf before he is weaned or a yearling bull if he is about a year old (more or less).  A castrated bull is called a steer.

My sister wants to breed dairy goats, so it doesn't make sense to have a dairy cow.  I will raise cattle for beef.  People have asked me if it will be difficult for me to send an animal I have nurtured from a calf to the butcher.  My answer is, "Yes it will be very hard, but that's life!"

And that's the view from here.  Check back soon for more facts about these divine bovine!  :D